Solemn, Open, Noble, that’s what the Electoral Committee expects!

There was a lot of discussion last week about August 4th, a day in which from 9am to 4pm, the political parties are expected to hand in their final lists, naming their candidates for Elections 2017, and indicating their positions on the list.

The lists must be handed in by legitimate party officials at City Hall, downtown, and the Police sounded the alarm that with urban congestion they fear potential clashes between devoted fans of different convictions.

You should know that by tradition, in full view of TV cameras, one party tries to outdo the next with banners and flags, at the time of list presentation. Dancing elephants, naked girls, anything goes as far as the fanfare preceding this legal, democratic procedure.

So the Police warned against hot-tempers, and the Electoral Committee reiterated that they will accept final lists on a strict timetable, and that they only expect party official at the venue, NOT the circus that surrounds them.

I totally support the Electoral Committee in their decision. City Hall is a dignified location befitting the event, and we live in a civilized society. If you hold the public responsible for disciplined conduct, it will deliver.

When asked to behave, Aruba is a pacifistic, well-mannered island, and you just have to look back at some of those huge concerts, or Jouvert Morning, to realize that we are compliant, well-brought up people.

Additionally, the Electoral Committee should hold party-leaders accountable, and urge them to discourage excessive shows of support and attempts of intimidation. Leave the bravado outside, please.

On another note, we have seen some implausible candidates appear on lists. What does it mean? It means that parties find it DIFFICULT to identify 29 suitable candidates, each.

The majority of voters is not interested in political careers, and is generally indifferent to running for office; government job yes, political activism, no.

We’ve also witnessed haggling going on all week, over the number, the position on the list. The higher up is perceived as better, commanding more respect. But if you are a real vote-getter, your position on the list is irrelevant. Member of MEP Mireille Sint Jago left her party in a huff this week, denouncing discrimination. The party probably assigned her a low number on the list and she was offended, how could they deny her a better position, with 77 votes in 2013, down from 255, in 2009?

An MMA fight, a musician, a timeshare developer, a former MinHealth, the parties have been flailing in the dark trying to fill all 29 spots on the list. I think there is no harm showing up short, providing the ones appearing on your list are strong, qualified individuals with great commitment to country and people.

I was always told #29 is an honorary position, you know you will never get into Parliament, but it is nice to have been asked to show political affiliation. For a small fee, I am available!

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July 31, 2017
Rona Coster